HOW TO MAKE CREAMY BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE
Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food that never fails to please. This recipe takes the beloved combination of tender macaroni noodles and velvety cheese sauce to the next level by adding a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping. The result is a satisfying, cheesy delight that will leave you wanting more.
Whether you're preparing a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving some indulgent goodness, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that never disappoints. This recipe combines perfectly cooked mac
INGREDIENTS NEEDED:
220 grams.Of elbow macaroni.
4 Tbsp.Of unsalted butter.
1/4 Cup.Of all-purpose flour.
2 Cups.Of whole milk.
2 Cups.Of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
1 Cup.Of shredded Gruyère cheese (you can substitute with Swiss cheese if desired).
1/2 Tsp.Of Dijon mustard.
1/4 Tsp.Of garlic powder.
1/4 Tsp.Of paprika.
Salt and black pepper to taste.
1 Cup.Of panko breadcrumbs.
2 Tbsp.Of melted butter.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1:
Set the temperature in the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Prepare a baking dish that is 9 by 13 inches by greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2:
Cook the macaroni according to the directions on the box, but stop the cooking process just shy of al dente since it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain, then put it to the side.
Step 3:
To make the sauce, start by melting 4 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan set over medium heat. After the butter has melted, add the flour and whisk the mixture continuously for another one to two minutes until it becomes golden brown and smells nutty.
Step 4:
Pour the milk in gradually while whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. The mixture should be cooked for approximately 5 minutes, or until it begins to bubble around the edges and becomes thicker.
Step 5:
After bringing a saucepan's heat down to a low setting, add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, as well as the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until all of the cheeses have melted and the sauce is completely smooth and velvety in texture.
Step 6:
After the macaroni has finished cooking, pour the cheese sauce over it and stir it well until all of the noodles are uniformly covered. After transferring the macaroni and cheese mixture to the baking dish that has been oiled, make sure that it is spread out in a uniform layer.
Step 7:
Panko breadcrumbs should be combined with melted butter in a small bowl, and then the mixture should be stirred until the breadcrumbs are equally covered. Make a uniform layer of the breadcrumb mixture on top of the macaroni and cheese by sprinkling the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
Step 8:
Bake in an oven that has been warmed for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs have become a golden brown color and the cheese is bubbling around the edges. Take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes once you've done so. Before serving, if you'd like, garnish the dish with some fresh parsley.
Step 9:
Enjoy the irresistible mix of the creamy, cheesy richness of the Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese with its crunchy breadcrumb coating while it is still warm from the oven and serve it immediately.
VARIATIONS:
For a little extra flavor, you can add cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or sautéed onions to the macaroni and cheese mixture before baking.
Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations, such as adding Monterey Jack, Fontina, or Gouda, to create your unique flavor profile.
If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
